How to transfer your case to Housing court
Housing Courts in Massachusetts specialize in housing matters. They are set up to hear evictions, housing code cases, and other housing matters. They have programs like the Tenancy Preservation Project, Lawyer for the Day, and other assistance that other courts don’t have. These programs can help tenants through the court process.
If your eviction case is in District Court or Boston Municipal Court, you have the right to transfer it to Housing Court. You do not need a hearing to transfer your case. You only need to get your Transfer form to your landlord and the courts the day before your trial date.
You can download this "how to" as a PDF booklet in 5 languages. This "how to" does not take the place of a lawyer. Try to get a lawyer. Some courts have a Lawyer for the Day program. The program offers free legal advice on your court day.